CC's return, deGrom-Stras top strong slate
This is one of the most exciting points in the season, with every game carrying value and almost every intradivision matchup counting in a championship race. There's plenty on the line today.
Here are few things to look for:
1. Sabathia returns: BAL @ NYY, 7:05 p.m. ET
Yankees veteran CC Sabathia is returning from the disabled list at just the right time -- in the thick of a playoff race. The Yankees will be happy to welcome the left-hander back against the division-rival Orioles on Wednesday. He'll be up against Ubaldo Jimenez, who has gone at least six innings only 11 times in 27 starts this year.
Video: Statcast™ breaks down CC's increased fastball velocity
2. Clash out East: NYM @ WSH, 7:05 p.m. ET
After dropping the first two games of the series, there's no question the Nationals need to win the finale against the Mets on Wednesday, especially with a six-game deficit in the NL East and lofty expectations to meet. It'll be Jacob deGrom and Stephen Strasburg meeting in this matchup after Strasburg missed a turn in the rotation because of back tightness. Strasburg puts his 3-1 record and 2.70 ERA since the All-Star break on the line, while deGrom tries to boost his 1-2 record lifetime against the Nats.
Video: BOS@NYM: deGrom K's 10 over six innings of work
3. Happ on a roll: PIT @ CIN, 7:10 p.m ET
J.A. Happ has been a godsend for the Pirates down the stretch, turning in a historic streak. Against Keyvius Sampson and the Reds on Wednesday, Happ will be looking for his sixth straight start without allowing more than one run, which would equal a franchise record set by John Candelaria in 1982. Happ has a 26-to-5 strikeout-to-walk ratio in his last five starts.
Video: PIT@STL: Happ knocks down comebacker behind his back
4. Freeway Series finale: LAD @ LAA, 10:05 p.m. ET
Garrett Richards gets the ball for the Angels as they take on the NL West-leading Dodgers in the final Interleague game of the year for both clubs.
Fighting for a postseason berth, the Angels will need another strong performance from Richards, who has produced a quality start in five of his past six outings.
The Dodgers, who could clinch a playoff spot as early as next week, will be looking for improvement from right-hander Mat Latos, who has made it through five innings just once in five starts since being acquired from the Marlins.